Paediatric Nutrition: Building Strong Foundations

The first 1,000 days of a child's life — from conception to the second birthday — represent a unique window of opportunity for nutritional intervention. The eating patterns, gut microbiome, and metabolic programming established during this period have measurable effects on cognitive development, immune function, and the risk of chronic disease decades later.

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in UAE children under five, affecting an estimated 30–40% of toddlers. Symptoms are often subtle — mild fatigue, reduced appetite, slightly pale appearance — but the impact on brain development and learning is significant. Iron-rich foods (red meat, lentils, fortified cereals) should be introduced from six months, alongside vitamin C sources to enhance absorption.

Vitamin D deficiency is paradoxical in a sun-rich country, but indoor lifestyles, sun avoidance, and sunscreen use mean that most UAE children do not make enough. Our paediatric guidelines recommend 400 IU daily as a supplement for infants under 12 months, and continued monitoring via annual blood test through adolescence.

Screen time and ultra-processed food are the two issues I most commonly discuss with parents. Children who spend more than two hours daily on screens eat an average of 10% more calories and significantly fewer vegetables. Establishing a family mealtime routine — with screens off and a variety of colours on the plate — is one of the single most protective habits parents can cultivate. Our paediatric team offers structured nutritional consultations for children from six months to sixteen years. Book an appointment at our Jumeirah branch today.